FCC Plans National, Government-Run WiFi

Nothing says innovation like a tax-funded state monopoly

Editor's Note: The original story linked to here misrepresented the FCC's position, as is explained here.

What would you say to unlimited access to free super Wi-Fi networks across the nation  – and possibly never having to sign up for a data plan?

The Federal Communications Commission is considering making free Wi-Fi- networks available to the public. While it could be years before it's a reality, the proposal already has wireless service providers in a tizzy, according to The Washington Post.

The proposed Wi-Fi networks would be powerful enough to "penetrate thick concrete walls and travel over hills and around trees," the Post said.

The idea is from FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski. "Freeing up unlicensed spectrum is a vibrantly free-market approach that offers low barriers to entry to innovators developing the technologies of the future and benefits consumers," Genachowski told the Post.